Toronto Tourist Attractions: A Comprehensive Guide

Toronto is the capital of the province of Ontario in Canada. Located on the northwest shore of Lake Ontario, it is the largest city in Canada and the fourth largest city in North America. Home to a population of nearly 3 million people, it is a vibrant and multicultural city, with more than 140 nationalities and languages represented.

A Brief History of Toronto

Toronto has been inhabited by Indigenous peoples for centuries. The first known European settlement in the area was a French trading post established in 1750, followed by a British settlement in 1793 called York. The city then grew rapidly and was renamed Toronto in 1834. During the 19th century, Toronto became the center of trade and industry in Canada and was designated the capital of the province of Ontario in 1867. In the early 20th century, the city was transformed by an influx of immigrants from around the world. Today, Toronto is one of the most diverse cities in the world and has become a major economic, cultural and educational centre.

Things to Do in Toronto

Toronto is a city full of life, with something for everyone. There are plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy, from cultural attractions to outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or an exciting adventure, here are some of the top attractions in Toronto that you won’t want to miss.

CN Tower

Standing at a height of 553m (1,815 ft), the CN Tower is one of the most iconic landmarks in Toronto. It is the tallest free-standing structure in the Western Hemisphere and offers stunning views of the city from its observation deck. The CN Tower also houses a revolving restaurant and an interactive experience centre, where visitors can learn about the history of the tower and its construction.

Toronto Islands

The Toronto Islands are located just off the shore of Lake Ontario and are accessible via ferry from downtown Toronto. The Islands are home to a variety of activities including bike trails, beaches, parks, and even a small amusement park. Visitors can also explore the historic Lighthouse Point and enjoy spectacular views of the skyline from Centre Island.

Royal Ontario Museum

The Royal Ontario Museum (ROM) is one of the largest museums in North America and one of the top attractions in Toronto. It has art, culture and natural history collections from around the world, including dinosaurs, mummies, and artefacts from ancient civilizations. The ROM also hosts a variety of special events and exhibitions throughout the year.

Art Gallery of Ontario

The Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) is one of Canada’s largest art museums, located in downtown Toronto. The AGO houses a collection of over 90,000 works of art from around the world, including pieces from Canadian artists like Tom Thomson and Emily Carr. Visitors can also explore its interactive galleries, which feature hands-on activities for children and adults alike.

Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada

Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada is a must-see for any visitor to Toronto. Located at the base of the CN Tower, it is home to over 16,000 aquatic creatures from around the world, including sharks, jellyfish, sea turtles and stingrays. The Aquarium also features interactive displays and activities for kids, making it a great place to spend an afternoon with the family.

Kensington Market

Kensington Market is one of Toronto’s oldest neighbourhoods and is known for its vibrant street art, eclectic shops, and colourful alleyways. Visitors can explore its cafés and restaurants or browse through its vintage stores and antique shops. It’s also a great place to find unique souvenirs to take home with you.

St Lawrence Market

The St Lawrence Market is one of Toronto’s oldest and most popular attractions. Located in the heart of downtown Toronto, it is home to more than 120 vendors selling everything from fresh produce to artisanal cheeses and baked goods. There’s also a farmers’ market held every Saturday, where you can find local produce and goods from across Canada.

Popular Tours in Toronto

Toronto offers visitors plenty of opportunities to explore its sights and attractions with guided tours that offer unique experiences. Here are two popular tours that you won’t want to miss when visiting Toronto.

Toronto City Sightseeing Tour

This tour takes visitors on an exploration of downtown Toronto’s top attractions with stops at the CN Tower, Royal Ontario Museum, Art Gallery of Ontario, Kensington Market and more. Along the way you’ll learn about the city’s history and culture as well as get a chance to explore some of its hidden gems. The tour lasts 3 hours and provides an introduction to all that Toronto has to offer. Book this tour here.

Toronto Neighborhoods Tour

This tour takes visitors on an exploration of Toronto’s diverse neighbourhoods including Little Italy, Chinatown, Kensington Market and more. Along the way you’ll learn about the city’s culture through its food, art and architecture as well as get a chance to explore some lesser-known parts of town. The tour lasts 4 hours and provides an in-depth look at what makes Toronto unique. Book this tour here.

Conclusion

Toronto is an exciting city full of culture, history and adventure. From iconic landmarks like the CN Tower to vibrant neighbourhoods like Kensington Market, there is something for everyone in Toronto. Be sure to explore some of its popular attractions and take advantage of its great tours for an unforgettable experience!